How do you introduce cats to not get along?
Emma Payne
Published Jan 07, 2026
Separate their resources. Reduce competition between the cats by providing multiple, identical food bowls, beds and litter boxes in different areas of your house. Provide additional perches. More hiding spots and perches will allow your cats to space themselves out as they prefer.
How long does it take for cats to get used to each other?
It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. Although some cats certainly become close friends, others never do. Many cats who don't become buddies learn to avoid each other, but some cats fight when introduced and continue to do so until one of the cats must be re-homed.
How do you get cats to get used to each other?
First – Visual contact between cats
- Separate physically with screen door or baby gate. ...
- Give cats treats so they spend time close to each other or play with a feather to encourage play. ...
- When comfortable with each other they will sniff noses, play through the door or rub against the door.
How can I get my cat to calm down around other cats?
Help dampen noise when she is in her carrier by using a towel to cover the carrier. Play soothing music in your home if she is becoming agitated. Remember to use a low, soothing voice when talking to your cat to help keep her calm.
Should I let my cats fight it out?
Never let the cats “fight it out.” Cats don't resolve their issues through fighting, and the fighting usually just gets worse. Interrupt aggression with a loud clap of your hands or spray from a water gun. Neuter the cats. Intact males are particularly prone to aggressive behavior.
23 related questions foundHow do you introduce an aggressive cat to other cats?
The best way to do this is by taking your original pet and putting them in a closed bathroom or bedroom for a moment while you move the newcomer to the main part of the house. Then, you can move the other cat into the confined space.
How do I get my old cat to like my new cat?
How Do I Get My Older Cat To Like My New Kitten?
- Keep the new kitten isolated and feed both the older cat and kitten close the door. ...
- Prop the door enough that they can see and smell each other. ...
- Bring your older cat into the room with the kitten. ...
- Increase the time the cats spend together by 5 or so minutes each day.
Is hissing normal when introducing cats?
Some hissing is normal during this stage. Don't punish the cats for hissing or growling as that can form a negative association about the other cat, as well as you. Allow the cats to see each other once there has been no hissing for a couple of days.
How do you get two cats to be friends?
How to Get Your Cats to Like Each Other
- Make sure each cat has plenty of his or her own space. ...
- Don't give the cats catnip. ...
- Have plenty of their favorite cat toys around to distract them from fighting.
- Make the time they spend together as pleasant as possible.
How do you introduce a second cat?
How To Introduce A Second Cat To Your Home — Safely & Happily
- Match Your Cats. The saying "opposites attract" isn't necessarily true for cats. ...
- Swap Scents. ...
- Keep Them Separated. ...
- Explore the “Door” Method. ...
- Feed The Cats At The Same Time (But Separately) ...
- Switch To A Baby Gate. ...
- Try Playtime. ...
- Expect It To Take Time.
What do you do when one cat wants to play and the other doesn t?
If the older cat doesn't wish to play, perhaps you can provide soft stroking for the older cat while dangling an interesting toy for the younger cat. Stop the play from time to time and offer each cat some valuable cat treats. This will also build a good feeling about being in the presence of the other cat.
Why is my cat hissing at my other cat all of a sudden?
The most common reason that cats hiss is when they feel threatened by another cat or animal, and they will hiss as a warning to keep away. Hissing is a way to warn the threat to not come any closer or else be attacked.
How do you stop cats from chasing each other?
Use cat wands, treats, and the like to distract and create a zone of neutrality—try feeding treats to both cats when they are around each other. Get them to associate something good with their shared space. Reduce Stress: Is there stress in your house?
How do you know if your cats don't like each other?
They may freak out a little if they accidentally touch each other. You might also see signs of insecurity in one or both cats. These signs can include hiding, pooping outside the litter box, spraying in inappropriate places outside the box, or becoming extra destructive and even lashing out at you.
How do I get my cat to stop hissing at my new cat?
Jealousy is a normal reaction. Don't yell, scold or punish your current cat for hissing at the newcomer. When he acts nice—or at least nonthreatening—to the new cat, praise him and give treats. If fighting breaks out or either cat is highly stressed, separate them for a few more days.
How do you introduce a cat quickly?
Here's exactly how to introduce cats fast:
- Put your new cat in a closed spare room.
- Feed your cats at the closed door.
- Play with your cats at the closed door.
- Slowly introduce cats by exchanging scents.
- Switch the cats quickly so they can explore.
- Supervise direct contact between cats.
- Let the cats free.
What happens if you introduce cats too quickly?
Introducing too quickly with little preparation will often lead to cats feeling threatened and scared, which increases the chance of aggressive behaviour being shown. Once cats feel this way about each other, it can be extremely difficult to change their minds.
Do cats get jealous of other cats?
Can Cats Get Jealous of Other Cats? Jealousy over the presence of another cat is very common. All cats have different personalities, and some will be made insecure and display jealousy more easily than others. It is important to watch your cat and observe their cues and triggers.
Will my cat hate me if I get another cat?
Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder. If you're able to choose from a group of kittens, avoid a kitten that's hissing, growling or engaged in serious battle with his mates.
Will my cat run away if I get another cat?
However, if you already have a cat, then you may be worried about integrating the two animals in your home. One of the most pressing concerns animal owners have is whether their cat will run away if they bring home another. The short answer is no, as long as you take the right precautions. Keep reading to learn more.
Will getting a second cat change my cats personality?
Those differences in personality can have a profound effect on how two cats may get along. An easy-going cat may accept most other cats, while a timid and shy cat may be reluctant to accept another cat, depending on the new cat's personality.
How do I get my older cat to stop attacking my new cat?
Leave the door of the first room open so the other cats can explore. They will smell the scent of their new house mate and rub against objects in the room to leave their own scent. Alternating rooms each day also helps to prevent territorial behavior.
Why does my new cat hiss at my old cat?
Hissing is a distance-increasing behavior. Simply put, it's a warning saying, “Please back off, and do not come any closer.” We want to make sure the new cat and the old cat associate good things with that door and what's on the other side of it. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to do that.
How do you discipline a cat for fighting?
You don't want to get in the middle of two fighting cats, so try to distract them instead, with a loud noise or sudden movement to break their concentration on their fight. Don't punish your cat. Never punish your cat for aggressive behavior toward another cat. Punishment can make fearful or aggressive behaviors worse.
How do you stop territorial behavior in cats?
Keep a regular routine – In terms of anxiety level, the less change, the better. Try feeding your cat at the same time every day, scheduling a set playtime, keeping their bed in the same spot, and staying on top of litter box cleaning. The calmer your kitty, the less likely they are to become territorial.